Santa Justa Lift
One of the city’s many landmarks, the Elvador se Santa Justa is not only a piece of beautiful 19th century structure, but it also offers perfect panoramic views of the city. Catch a ride up to the viewing platform and take in Lisbon’s landscapes.
Tram 28
Public transport like no other, the Remodelado trams of Lisbon are a part of the city’s historic culture with their preserved 1930’s style. Tram 28 is a public service, which runs through the popular areas of Lisbon, providing a cheap and cheerful city tour whilst sitting alongside locals.
Time Out Market
From fine dining to authentic street food, the Time Out Market is the ultimate dining experience. With 33 food venues and 8 bars offering tastes from all over the world, it’s guaranteed that each visitor’s cravings will be satisfied.
Castelo São Jorge
Bursting with medieval history, the Castelo São Jorge is the perfect way to learn about Lisbon’s past whilst appreciating the beauty of the building itself. Explore the ruins of this historical landmark and experience views of the city from a different perspective.
Things to do in Lisbon for families
Looking to escape to a city that the kids will fall in love with just as much as you? Lisbon's endless family-friendly attractions, atmospheric cobbled streets and sunny coastal views, might just make it the perfect pick for you and your family. Let the kid’s imagination run wild with a trip to the Castelo Sao Jorge. Step back in time and explore the historic castle where they can become king for the day and learn about the city's fascinating history. If your little ones love animals, a visit to the aquarium or zoo is a must! The Lisbon Zoo takes you on a trip around the world, where you can get up closeto fierce tigers, majestic elephants and colourful South American birds.
Another great day out for the whole family is the Pavilhao do Conhecimento science museum in the Parque das Nacoes area. This museum is far from ordinary, with interactive science experiments that the kids (and big kids) will love, along with exciting exhibitions on art and animals that aim to spark creativity in every visitor.
That’s not all, Lisbon is of course home to gorgeous stretches of golden coastline, offering a great choice of beaches that make the perfect family day out. Cascais is a firm family-favourite for its easy access, safe waters and one of Portugal’s most famous ice cream shops - Stantini's.
Things to do in Lisbon for couples
Couples visiting Lisbon are sure to fall in love with its romantic European atmosphere, dreamy ocean views and quaint local restaurants. Take to the waters and see the city from a unique perspective on of the cities many boat tours. Each day many boats set sail from the marina, from guided sight-seeing tours and dolphin watching trips to spectacular sunset cruises (which are great if you’re seeking a little romance).
If you like getting outdoorsy with your loved one, why not rent a scooter and speed along the cobbled streets of the city snapping some pictures of the beautiful terraced buildings and pretty coastal views? On your journey, it’s worth paying a visit to the Feira da Ladra market, located just outside the Alfama district. Here you’ll come across a stream of stalls laid out along the streets with a curious collection of vintage furniture, old paintings, rustic ornaments and traditional jewellery, with a beady eye you might just be able to bag yourself a bargain!
End the day with a candle-lit dinner at one of Lisbon’s many fantastic restaurants, elegant settings, excellent service and simply magnificent menus. The best place to head for an evening full of romance and good food has to be the Cais do Sodré district. This colourful suburb offers a home to the city's hippest restaurants, atmospheric waterfront bars and late-night nightclubs.
Things to do in Lisbon for groups
Lisbon is a popular choice for many stag and hen parties, with the promise of gorgeous sunshine, cheap beer, lively bars and plenty of team activities for a spot of afternoon fun. For parties seeking something active, you won’t be short of options, from surfing experiences to paintballing shootouts, bubble football and even sea kayaking, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this city. But if your idea of fun involves a little more pampering, there are also many luxurious hotels with rejuvenating spa day experiences, or why not hire out a private boat for the day and set sail along the European coastline?
As the sun sets, the cobbled city streets come to life with an atmospheric buzz, lively outdoor bars, live local music and extravagant nightclubs can be found on all corners of town, so you and your pals can live it up until the early hours of the morning. Feeling lucky? There’s also the Lisbon Casino. Roll the dice, play the slots and try your hand at a game of blackjack, get the whole group involved and see if you can hit the jackpot!
Things to do in Lisbon for foodies
Lisbon boasts a fantastic food culture! Discover famous Portuguese tapas eateries with delicious, authentic dishes, reinvented modern restaurants with creative concepts and secret back street eats to traditional family-run taverns. One of the best ways to discover the secrets of Portuguese-style cooking is with a food tour. There are tours covering every area of the city. Explore the world-famous modern culinary creations of Campo de Ourique or take a trip out of town to the traditional Mouraria neighbourhood where you’ll get a glimpse of the life of a local and a true Portuguese feast.
If you’re really feeling inspired by the interesting Portuguese cooking style, why not try a cooking class? You can book on to a class online, learning first-hand the hard work, herbs, spices and special techniques the locals use to create their intriguing authentic dishes!
Things to do in Lisbon on a budget
Lisbon is also home to a long list of free local attractions that you can check out whilst you’re here. Nature lovers will fit right in at the Jardim da Estrela, this tranquil setting is the perfect place to breathe in some fresh air, enjoy a coffee at the café and admire the pretty park views for a break from the bustling city. Or, if you’re seeking a spot of culture, why not take a guided tour of the Núcleo Arqueológico museum, where you can discover fascinating underground walkways and remains from the medieval ages.
Head to the beach! Dig out those flip flops, grab your snorkel and pack up a picnic for a day full of smiles and sunshine. Lisbon has a beautiful stretch of coastline with many different beaches to explore. Take your pick, from the calm sandy shores of the popular Praia de Carcavelos in Cascais to the modern and lively surfer’s paradise that is the Costa da Caparica coastline. Wherever you decide to explore, a day at the beach is one of the best ways to enjoy some budget-friendly fun with the ones you love.
